Ways to Teach Kids about Sensible Spending

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The Daily Ardmoreite

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Posted Nov. 30, 2012 at 9:00 AM
Updated Nov 30, 2012 at 10:01 AM

Posted Nov. 30, 2012 at 9:00 AM
Updated Nov 30, 2012 at 10:01 AM

OKLAHOMA CITY

If you haven’t already, you’re probably about to start holiday shopping. Have you talked to your children about the value of money and the importance of managing it wisely? All parents hope that their children will grow up to make prudent use of their money, yet few actually spend time talking to them about how to accomplish these goals, a new study has found. According to the American Institute of CPAs, parents are more likely to have talked with their children about good manners, smart eating habits, the importance of good grades, the dangers of drugs and alcohol and the risks of smoking than about sensible spending. The holiday season offers plenty of opportunities to educate your kids.

If you’re not sure how to get started, the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants has this advice.

Stand your ground. Of course, your children won’t have much motivation to save if you buy them a toy whenever they ask or pull money out of your wallet whenever they want to meet friends for pizza. Although it can be hard to say no, keep in mind that by doing so, you are helping them learn how to budget and about the value of delayed gratification.